Electronics are susceptible to damage, and weather can easily harm them if you don’t properly protect them. Ethernet cables are no exception, so here are a few practical ways to protect outdoor Ethernet cables. These are all tried-and-true methods. You can even use multiple methods at once to keep your Ethernet cable and internet connection safe.
Use a Conduit
One of the most sensible ways of protecting your cable is through a conduit pipeline. These days, most Ethernet cables come covered around the outside, which is more affordable than having to run a PVC pipeline to your home.
Having that PVC outer coating means that your cables are ready for any kind of environment. So if you want to bury your line as-is, you can do that. However, keep in mind that it could one day be severed from digging or something striking the ground where it is, which would be an inconvenience.
Weatherproof Center Box
You’ll also want to weatherproof the center box that the wires come with. This will contain all the electronics and wiring, keeping them from being exposed to the outside elements. This is the powerhouse of the Ethernet cabling. A great way of successfully using a weatherproof center box is placing it in the direct sun after sealing up all the sides and openings. That way, the sealant will properly solidify.
Direct Burial Underground
If you have your internet provider bury your cable, you will have peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about something gnawing on the line or something falling on the line and severing it. Burial is truly a safeguard to keep your line secure day in and day out. Direct burial is especially safe if you have an unshielded Ethernet cable that does not contain copper.
There are several ways to protect your outdoor Ethernet cable, but it is recommended that you use as many as you can so that you won’t need to replace your cable sooner than you have to.
